Many Americans will make Social Security the bedrock of their retirement plan, but there's more to the benefit than having a birthday and signing up to get your checks. Here are 10 essentials you need to know to get all the money you're entitled to out of the Social Security system.

Even if you're nervous that Social Security's coffers will run dry quicker than forecast, or worried that your retirement will be cut short by an unforeseen illness, don't make this move without thinking it through.